Meet Floyd Springer! Floyd is a 2001 graduate of the CICS program. He now works as an Executive Director IT for Eli Lilly. Floyd is a dedicated BSU alumnus, and he recently celebrated his daughter’s graduation from the BSU Miller College of Business. Chirp Chirp!

What led you to your graduate program at BSU?

I felt like I wasn’t finished just yet after earning my bachelor’s, and at the time, there were only three technical-related degree programs. I felt like I was missing that last infinity stone. The CICS program is only a year, and during my internship, they presented to me what I would earn starting out after finishing. I was excited about the accomplishment of coming into Lilly at a higher level and earning a master’s degree at an early age. Ball State opened a lot of doors, and I’m very happy I did.

What was your proudest memory as a BSU grad student?

I would say my oldest daughter was due during midterms. I stayed up studying while my wife was in labor, using flashcards to study while supporting my wife. My daughter was born at 1:16pm, 4 lbs 3 oz, and I had a midterm at 3:30. I wanted her to see me with my master’s. Dr. Jones let me know the day after I ended up with an A- on that midterm. Ball Memorial Hospital took good care of both her and my wife.

How have you been able to use your graduate degree(s) from BSU?

Number one, from a technical point of view, when I joined Lilly, I joined the telecom division. The technology we were using on campus was more advanced than Lilly’s. So when they finally upgraded, I was able to coach my peers and those higher than me. On the development side, CICS has non-technical courses that discuss the history of telecom and how to manage the corporate space politically. I have been able to use that to date.

“True scholars ask questions,” and I was able to use that knowledge. The master’s degree has been a tie-breaker for me. In 2009, I was allowed to live/work in China for a 6-month assignment, and my master’s degree was a factor in getting that opportunity. In my current opportunity, I am now living in Puerto Rico for 2–3 years.

What advice or wisdom do you have to share with current BSU grad students?

One of my best pieces of advice is to look for mentors. Mentors have changed my perspective and guided me along my journey. My mentors are phenomenal. Also, develop relationships with your professors and keep in touch after graduation. They have lots of knowledge and are really great people. Lastly, don’t worry or fear being the youngest in the room. Use that to your advantage; your age not only gives you a valuable perspective but also allows you to leverage what senior leaders and mentors teach you sooner (than they did).

Find and explore your passions!